#USA #Bank of America #Waterbury #Mattatuck Museum #The Body Imagined

The Body Imagined: An Artistic Exploration at Mattatuck Museum

The highly anticipated exhibition The Body Imagined: Figurative Art in the Bank of America Collection will have its grand opening at the Mattatuck Museum in Waterbury, Connecticut. Running from June 22 to September 28, 2025, this dynamic showcase will highlight the evolution of figurative art spanning from the late 1960s to the present.

What to Expect from the Exhibit

Organized by Bank of America through its Art in our Communities® program, this exhibition sets itself apart by being a debut showing. The museum will celebrate the event on June 22 with an opening ceremony from 1 PM to 4 PM, featuring remarks at 1 PM. Admission will be discounted to just $5 for this special day. Bob Burns, the Museum Director, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, emphasizing the collaboration's role in making art more accessible and fostering appreciation of the diverse voices influencing contemporary culture.

The exhibition is divided into three thematic sections: Body Language, Changing Forms, and Framing the Figure. Each area offers visitors a unique perspective on how the representation of the human figure has transformed through different generations and artistic movements.

1. Body Language: This section delves into the historical significance of various cultures and the social implications of the human form. Artists such as Alfredo Ramos Martínez and Delita Martin display influences from notable movements like Mexican Muralism and European Social Realism.

2. Changing Forms: This part examines the shift towards abstraction following World War II, showcasing artists like Milton Avery and George Condo. Their work reinterprets conventional representations of the body, imbuing their pieces with psychological depth.

3. Framing the Figure: Here, artists comment on the intersections of art and popular culture. Works by Andy Warhol and Cindy Sherman challenge the viewer to reconsider consumerism and celebrity culture in relation to the human form.

This extraordinary collection unites 97 artworks from reputable artists, presenting a comprehensive overview of how artists have continuously innovated in their representations of the body, revealing intricate ties to culture, identity, and societal norms.

Related Programs to Enhance Visitor Experience

To complement the exhibition, the Mattatuck Museum will offer a range of public programs throughout the summer that encourage community participation and facilitate a deeper understanding of the exhibition's central themes. Notable programs include:

• - Cocktail Conversations on August 14 where visitors can engage in discussions with the Chief Curator and featured artists.
• - A film screening on July 14 titled Get to Know Fritz Scholder highlighting the life and works of the influential indigenous artist.
• - Family Fun Dayz on July 26, featuring scavenger hunts and creative activities aimed at exploring storytelling and artistic expression.
• - Yoga on the Terrace, where participants can connect mind and body while appreciating the exhibition's themes.

Join Us at the Mattatuck Museum

As a cornerstone of the local cultural landscape, the Mattatuck Museum showcases a rich collection that includes over 8,000 objects representing American art and history. Housed in a renovated space that enhances accessibility and learning opportunities, the museum strives to be a welcoming hub for all.

This inaugural exhibition is just the beginning of exciting offerings at Mattatuck, and Bank of America's commitment makes it possible for more community engagement. Visitors can look forward to ongoing events and insights into the exhibition throughout the summer.

For additional details about the exhibition and public programs, be sure to check out their website at mattmuseum.org. The museum is easily accessible, located in downtown Waterbury with ample parking available. As part of the Banks' Museums on Us® initiative, Bank of America cardholders receive free admission during the first weekend of each month, making it even easier to explore this intriguing collection and more.

With the opening of The Body Imagined, come witness the dynamic interplay of art and culture at the Mattatuck Museum and engage with a celebration of human creativity that knows no bounds.